Birmingham City comment: Award nomination only what much improved Stephen Gleeson deserves

Birmingham City's Stephen Gleeson celebrates scoring his side's first goal of the game with teammates

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Birmingham City’s Stephen Gleeson has started the season terrifically, and earned the recognition he deserves after being nominated for the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month Award.

Gleeson was shortlisted following an impressive start to the 2014/15 campaign which has seen the 27-year-old hit the ground running.

While the midfielder never registered particularly poor performances, he had a tendency to operate as a passenger during some games last season and was overshadowed by Nottingham Forest loanee Robert Tesche, who enjoyed a superb spell.

He was accused of being “too lightweight” by some sections of Blues fans and on occasion allowed the game to pass him by, stranded in the centre of the park.

However, an ordinary Stephen Gleeson is seemingly a thing of the past.

He is attacking with intent while retaining possession for his teammate’s use efficiently; Gleeson has been key to Blues’ unbeaten start to 2015/16 under Gary Rowett.

Indeed the Blues boss’ astute dealings in the transfer market have contributed to his player’s fine form, with Gleeson moulding a formidable partnership in the middle of the park with new signing Maikel Kieftenbeld.

Pictured Blues stock Maikel Kieftenbeld

Republic of Ireland international Gleeson is flourishing alongside Kieftenbeld, a £180,000 buy from Dutch side Groningen, as both stars complement each other’s finer attributes.

Kieftenbeld’s tenacious, energetic manner allows his midfield compatriot more time on the ball and licence to wander forward. Gleeson has made no mistake in reaping the rewards.

That the pairing are blossoming is testament to Rowett, who, arguably, could consider himself unlucky for not making the Manager of the Month shortlist.

Birmingham City manager Gary Rowett applauds the fans at full time

The St Andrew’s manager and his backroom team have transformed Gleeson from a solid League One player into a shining Championship central midfielder.

Having arrived on a free transfer last summer, he is now at the heart of an imposing second-tier side who haven’t trailed in a competitive match since April.

As Blues look to the play-offs, Gleeson, along with his teammates, will hope to drive his team there as one of the central catalysts to its success.